Fields was among several AgCenter experts who spoke to a group of nursery representatives, landscapers, home gardeners and Louisiana Master Gardener volunteers at a horticulture forum held Nov. 7 at the LSU AgCenter Scott Research and Educational Center in Winnsboro.

“The container substrate influences every decision you make,” Fields said, adding that many components are available in commercial potting soils or for making your own.

“We are starting to see more wood substrates in the commercial greenhouse industries, while nurseries primarily use pine bark because it is readily available and provides the least costly uniform material for large containers,” he said.

Coconut coir is also catching on, Fields said, adding that it has similar characteristics to peat moss in water absorption and nutrient transfer.

AgCenter weed scientist Ron Strahan said homeowners have more options than they are aware of to break the cycle that allows weeds to reproduce and increase seed banks in flower garden soils and mulch.

“Many homeowners aren’t using preemergence herbicides, but they are effective tools that can break the cycle of continuous weed seed production and help deplete seed reserves,” Strahan said.

For most broadleaf weeds like spurge and common purslane, mulch used in conjunction with preemergence herbicides are the only selective control option available, Strahan said

Effective integrated pest management uses different strategies that begin before planting and continue through and after the life of the growing system, Singh said.

Keeping plants stress-free is key to boosting their healthy immune systems and reducing susceptibility to disease and insect pests by focusing on early and accurate identification of plant pathogens and pests, he said.

“The label is the law,” Singh said. Using chemicals requires understanding the chemical label, including dose recommendations and application frequency.

“Now is a good time to get your soil tested,” said AgCenter horticulture agent Kylie Miller. “Look at soil pH and make necessary soil amendments.”

Soil test kits are available from all AgCenter parish extension offices. Fees begin at $15 for the first sample and are $10 for each additional sample.

“In the spring you can grow your heirlooms, hybrids and whatever you want. But if you are growing outdoors, the tomato spotted wilt virus-resistant varieties are your insurance against thrips,” she said.